Last Sunday, I noticed our Facebook Live Stream cut out halfway through our service. For those who missed the rest, here’s a look at my sermon notes from that day.

P.S.: Would our church family be interested in more posts like this?

Reluctant Messenger:

Overview: The Uncomfortable Call

• Exodus 4:10-17: Moses' reluctance to accept God’s call highlights human struggles with fear, inadequacy, and resistance to divine purpose.
• God’s Call: Disrupts comfort and confronts injustice. It is both personal and communal, summoning us to participate in the liberation of others.

Moses' Background: A Journey of Humility and Preparation

1. Adoption into Pharaoh’s Family:

   • Moses was born into a Hebrew family but was adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter, growing up in the Egyptian palace.
   • This unique upbringing gave him a dual identity, connecting him to both Egyptian royalty and his Hebrew heritage.

2. Incident with the Slave Driver:

   • Moses witnessed an Egyptian overseer beating a Hebrew slave and intervened, killing the Egyptian.
   • This act of justice, though impulsive, led to his fleeing Egypt to escape punishment.

3. Exile in Midian:

   • Moses found refuge in Midian, where he worked as a shepherd and married into the priestly family of Jethro.
   • His time in Midian humbled him and prepared him for the leadership role God would later assign.

4. The Burning Bush and God’s Call:

   • While tending his flock, Moses encountered God in the form of a burning bush, where he received the divine call to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
   • Despite his past experiences and current humility, Moses felt inadequate and reluctant to accept the mission.

Moses' Excuses: The Human Struggle

1. Self-Doubt: “Who am I?”

   • Moses questions his identity and worthiness to fulfill God’s mission.
   • Universal struggle: We often doubt our abilities and question our identity in God’s plan.

2. Questioning Authority: “What if they ask your name?”

   • Moses fears rejection and questions his authority.
   • Reflects our struggles with self-belief and trusting in God’s appointment.

3. Inadequacy: “I am not eloquent.”

   • Moses focuses on his lack of eloquence and speech impediments.
   • We often fixate on our shortcomings rather than trusting in God’s sufficiency.

4. Resistance: “Send someone else.”

   • Moses' fear leads to resistance and a desire to escape the call.
   • Excuses are rooted in fear, inadequacy, and uncertainty.

God’s Response: Presence and Provision

• God’s Assurance: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14).

  • Emphasizes God’s sufficiency, faithfulness, and presence.
  • God does not promise ease but assures us of His presence in our challenges.

• Provision of Community: God provides Aaron to assist Moses.

  • Liberation is communal, not solitary.
  • We are not alone in our calling; God provides companionship and support.

Call to Action: Stepping Forward in Faith

1. Trust in God:

   • Recognize God’s sufficiency and presence in every challenge.
   • Trust that God equips us for His work, despite our fears and inadequacies.

2. Embrace Community:

   • Understand that liberation and ministry are communal efforts.
   • Identify your “Aaron” – those who will support and walk with you in your calling.

3. Use Your Voice:

   • Speak out against injustice, even when fear is present.
   • Trust that God will give you the words to say and the courage to speak.

Questions for Reflection

• Where is God calling you to confront injustice or oppression?
• What are the excuses or fears that hold you back from embracing your calling?
• How can you trust in God’s presence and provision in your life?
• Who is your “Aaron” – someone who can support and encourage you in your calling?

Conclusion and Benediction

• Final Thought: God’s call is not about our perfection but our willingness. When fear rises, God provides courage and companionship. Trust in His presence and the support of your community.
• Benediction:
  • When your voice trembles, may God speak through you.
  • When fear rises, may Christ’s courage rise higher.
  • When you feel alone, may you see the Aarons beside you, and be one to someone else.
  • Go forth as messengers of healing, freedom, and justice—not perfectly, but faithfully.
  • You are called. You are equipped. You are not alone. Amen.